How does optic fibre technology work?
In Optic fibre technology, electronic information is converted into light pulses using a transmitter. When a signal reaches the other side, it gets converted back to electronic information with the help of an optical receiver.
Why is information transmitted faster and of higher over fibre optic cables compared to copper wires?
Both fibre optic cables and copper wires encode data by detecting energy changes; however this is where the similarity ends. Electrical currents are transmitted through copper wires while light pulses are generated by a laser or light emitting diodes along the length of optical fibres. Data transmitted using light pulses is much faster than transmission over copper wires.
Optical fibres are capable of carrying much higher frequency ranges than copper wires. The bandwidth of fibre optic cables is also a lot higher than that of copper wires. Signals can be sent over distances greater than 200 kms without an appreciable loss of quality. On the other hand signals sent through copper wires degrade over longer distances. Fibre optic cables are also resistant to ground currents and noise which interrupt signals.
There different types of Fixed Line Service?
An nbn™ Fibre utilises either optic fibre line or existing copper network to provide access to fast broadband internet services.
FTTP:
nbn™ is committed to providing access to fast broadband services throughout Australia. Our current plan is to take advantage of existing network infrastructure, and upgrade it to work with the rest of the nbn™ network rollout.
This approach means we’re assessing what network technology may be available, and then using what we can to deliver a fast solution for each individual area. An nbn™ Fibre to the premises connection (FTTP) is used in circumstances where an optic fibre line will be run from the nearest available fibre node, to your premises. FTTP also requires an nbn™ network device to be installed inside your home. This device requires power to operate and can only be installed by an approved nbn™ Installer or service provider.
FTTN:
All types of nbn™ network connections that utilise a physical line running to the premises are considered fixed line connections. An nbn™ Fibre to the node (FTTN) connection is utilised in circumstances where the existing copper network will be used to make the final part of the nbn™ network connection, from a nearby FTTN cabinet or micro-node to your premises.
The fibre node is likely to take the form of a street cabinet. Each street cabinet will allow the nbn™ network signal to travel over optic fibre from the exchange to the cabinet, and connect with the existing copper network to reach your premise
FTTB:
All types of nbn™ network connections that utilise a physical line running to the premises are considered fixed line connections. An nbn™ Fibre to the building (FTTB) connection is generally used when we are connecting an apartment block or similar types of buildings to the nbn™ network. In this scenario we run a fibre optic line to the building communications room – we then use the existing technology in the building to connect to each apartment.
The fibre node in the building communications room is likely to take the form of a secure cabinet. Each cabinet will allow the nbn™ network signal to travel over the optic fibre, to the existing network technology present in the building.
How do I get it installed?
Once Reachnet receives your completed application form, a registered nbn™ installer will contact you to make an appointment for installation. You may be required to provide some information about the layout of your house and current internet usage habits. On the appointed date, the installer will arrive at your premises at the agreed time to install the equipment.
The following equipment will be supplied:
- nbn™ utility box
- nbn™ connection box
- Power Supply Unit with battery backup
- External & internal cabling
You will need a compatible Ethernet router to connect to the service. You can purchase one from Reachnet at a reasonable price when you register for the service.
How long does it take?
The time frame for installation varies from approximately 10 business days to about 28 business days.
- Type 1 service: An existing fixed copper/cable access line needs to be replaced with a new fibre access service.
- Type 2 service: New connections to new or existing premises.
Is the service available at my location?
You can check the availability of your address on the address checker on our website or call Reachnet on 1300 477 800 and one of our friendly nbn™ experts will be able to advise you whether you are eligible for the service and also answer any other question you may have.